File No. 300.115/768b

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Germany ( Gerard )

[Telegram]

370. German cruisers have sunk one or more English ships off coast of South America containing cargo of great value owned by Americans and destined to United States ports. Department desires to be advised as quickly as possible whether German Government proposes to hold proceedings in nature of prize adjudication on vessels and cargo so destroyed, and if so, where and when will such proceedings be held, and to have information necessary for guidance of owners American cargo.

Lansing